Researchers in the NIHR Mental Health Translational Research Collaboration (MH-TRC) Mental Health Mission (MHM) have contributed to a new report exploring the barriers to recruitment in mental health clinical trials and the potential for digital tools to provide solutions to these challenges.
The report, “Improving recruitment and retention in mental health clinical trials: The role of digital tools”, was led by Dr Lesley Booth, MH-TRC MHM Patient and Public Involvement, Engagement and Participation lead.
The project, funded by Boston Consulting Group, MQ Mental Health Research and the Wellcome Trust, involved hearing from people with lived experiences of mental health conditions on their views on access to studies and ideas for improvement.
Photograph : Luke MacGregor
Dr Booth said: “One of the standout features of this project was the involvement of people with lived experiences, drawn largely from the MHM workstreams and demonstrator sites.
“By addressing the unique challenges of recruitment and retention, this project has provided valuable insights and actionable recommendations for improving the success of mental health trials.
“The integration of digital tools and the focus on marginalised groups are particularly promising areas for future research and development. As we continue to advance our understanding of mental health, the involvement of people with lived experiences and the adoption of innovative approaches will be crucial in ensuring that clinical trials are effective, inclusive, and impactful.”
Max Carlish, Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement Co-Lead at the University of Birmingham and Lived Experience Advisory Panel member for the project said:
“Taking part in the focus groups has been one of the great highlights of my time working as a service user researcher. The range of experiences and expertise that was represented by the group members meant that a wide range of complex and sometimes challenging issues around mental health clinical trials was discussed.”
Learn more about Patient and Public Involvement, Engagement and Participation within the MH-TRC MHM on our website.
For enquiries contact: lesley.booth@psych.ox.ac.uk
